Planting Under Elevated Decks: Shade-Tolerant Vines and Shrubs

Homeowner wants to disguise unattractive supports/stairwell under second-story deck and pool deck. Area is mostly shade with some morning sun. Already has hostas; seeks vines or shrubs for stairwell.

First Step: Determine USDA Zone

Check USDA Hardiness Zone Map for plant selection.

Full Shade Vines

• Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) – Zones 8–10
• Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea) – Zones 4–7
• Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia Creeper) – Zones 3–9
• Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Boston Ivy) – Zones 4–8

Partial Shade Vines

• Antigonon leptopus (Coral Vine) – Zones 8–11
• Campsis radicans (Trumpet Creeper) – Zones 4–9
• Clematis virginiana (Virgin's Bower) – Zones 4–8
• Gelsemium sempervirens (Carolina Jessamine) – Zones 7–11
• Lonicera species (Honeysuckle) – various zones
• Trachelospermum jasminoides (Star Jasmine) – Zones 8–11
• Wisteria species – Zones 4–9 (vigorous, needs strong support)

Selection Tip

Paste Latin names into Google Images for visual identification. Match vine vigor to structure strength—stairwell supports may not hold heavy Wisteria or Trumpet Vine.